Name: Italian Pasta Fagioli: 7 Hearty Comfort Food Secrets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound ground beef; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste; 4 cups beef broth; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup ditalini pasta; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

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Italian Pasta Fagioli is a hearty and flavorful soup packed with protein and vegetables. This classic Italian recipe combines ditalini pasta, rich tomato broth, savory ground beef, and a medley of beans. It’s the ultimate comfort food that warms your soul and fills your belly. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner idea or a quick lunch, this dish fits the bill perfectly, providing you with a satisfying meal that’s sure to please. Let’s dive into the delicious world of Italian Pasta Fagioli!

Why You’ll Love This Italian Pasta Fagioli

This Italian Pasta Fagioli recipe brings several appealing benefits to your table:

It’s a hearty pasta fagioli recipe that satisfies hunger.
Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a nutritious choice.
Quick to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
Versatile enough to adapt with different beans or veggies.
Ideal for meal prep—store leftovers for easy lunches.

It’s a classic Italian comfort food that evokes nostalgia.

With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s no wonder pasta e fagioli is a staple in many Italian households.

Ingredients for Italian Pasta Fagioli

Gather these items:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
2 celery stalks, diced
1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
4 cups beef broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup ditalini pasta
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

How to Make Italian Pasta Fagioli Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Stir in beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Mix well to combine.
Step 4: Pour in beef broth. Add oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 25–30 minutes.
Step 5: In a separate pot, cook ditalini pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 6: Add cooked pasta to the soup just before serving and stir gently.
Step 7: Garnish with parsley and Parmesan cheese. Serve hot.

Italian Pasta Fagioli: 7 Hearty Comfort Food Secrets - Italian Pasta Fagioli - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Italian Pasta Fagioli

Keep these in mind:

Adjust seasoning according to your taste.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This soup can be frozen for future meals.
For a vegetarian pasta fagioli, substitute ground beef with mushrooms or lentils.

Best Ways to Serve Italian Pasta Fagioli

Here are a few serving suggestions:

Pair with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Top with extra Parmesan cheese for a savory boost.
Serve alongside a fresh salad for a well-rounded dinner.

How to Store and Reheat Italian Pasta Fagioli

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. This dish is perfect for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade soup throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Pasta Fagioli

What’s the secret to perfect Italian Pasta Fagioli?

The secret lies in the balance of flavors—using quality beef broth and allowing the soup to simmer sufficient time helps meld the flavors beautifully. Incorporating the right beans enhances the dish’s heartiness, making it a true Italian bean soup.

Can I make Italian Pasta Fagioli ahead of time?

Yes, this dish actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Just make sure to cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving to keep it from becoming mushy.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Italian Pasta Fagioli?

To avoid common mistakes, be careful not to overcook the pasta. Additionally, adjust the seasoning as needed, and don’t skip the simmering step, as it’s crucial for flavor development.

Variations of Italian Pasta Fagioli You Can Try

Feel free to play around with these variations:

Use best beans for pasta fagioli such as navy or black beans for different flavor profiles.
Make a traditional pasta fagioli without meat for a lighter option.
Add greens like spinach or kale for added nutrition.

Spice it up with more red pepper flakes or hot sausage for a kick.

Italian Pasta Fagioli: 7 Hearty Comfort Food Secrets - Italian Pasta Fagioli - additional detail

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